The meteoric rise of On Cloud shoes in the athletic footwear market is attributed to their revolutionary CloudTec technology, offering soft cushioning and energy return combined with lightweight and stylish designs. These shoes provide exceptional versatility across various terrains, making them suitable for road running, trail running, and everyday wear. Strategic partnerships with high-profile athletes and a solid commitment to sustainability through initiatives like the Cyclon program and CleanCloud technology further boost their appeal. My family’s personal experiences with the durability and comfort of On Cloud shoes underscore their exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality materials, solidifying their reputation as a trusted choice for performance and casual use.
Designer: On + Roger Federer
Technology Making Every Step Feel Like a Cloud
CloudTec technology sets On Cloud shoes apart from other running shoes. Imagine stepping on tiny, soft clouds every time you walk or run. That’s the magic of CloudTec! This innovative technology is at the heart of every On Cloud shoe, providing runners and walkers with an outstanding comfort and performance experience. 
When you look at On Cloud shoes, you’ll notice the distinctive “cloud” pods on the bottom. These hollow pods act like tiny bubbles. As you walk or run, these pods compress and squish down, making your landing soft and gentle, like stepping on a cushion. This is especially noticeable in models like the On Cloud 5 and the Cloud X, where the pods are designed to absorb impact effectively, reducing the strain on your feet and legs.
Cloud X 3 Training Shoe (Women)
But the magic doesn’t stop there. After the pods compress during your landing, they quickly bounce back to their original shape when you push off with your toes for your next step. This bounce gives you a little extra spring in your step, helping you move forward more quickly. This feature is particularly beneficial in On Cloudflow, a shoe runners favor for its responsive and energetic feel during fast-paced runs.
On CloudFlow
CloudTec’s ability to provide soft landings and bouncy takeoffs makes it unique. Traditional running shoes might feel hard or stiff when you land, but CloudTec ensures that every step is cushioned. At the same time, the bounce helps you propel forward, enhancing your performance without compromising comfort. The Cloudflyer model, designed for stability and support, showcases how CloudTec can adapt to different running needs while offering that cloud-like feel.
This technology enhances both comfort and performance. For example, the Cloudswift features CloudTec combined with Helion super foam, providing a smooth, comfortable ride with excellent energy return. Whether training for a marathon or just enjoying a leisurely walk, the soft landings protect your joints, while the responsive takeoffs boost your performance.
On Helion Superfoam
Lightweight and Minimalist Design Allows For Speed and Agility in Every Step
In addition to their innovative CloudTec technology, On Cloud shoes are renowned for their lightweight and minimalist design. This design philosophy is perfect for modern runners who value speed and agility. On Cloud shoes are built to be incredibly light, using materials that reduce weight without sacrificing support or durability.
For instance, the On Cloud 5 is one of the lightest models in the lineup, making it ideal for everyday wear and casual runs. Its minimalist design means that it lacks the bulky, heavy materials found in traditional running shoes, allowing runners to feel faster and more agile. This lightness doesn’t come at the expense of support, as each shoe is carefully engineered to provide the stability and structure needed for a comfortable run.
On Cloud 5
The aesthetics of On Cloud shoes also play a significant role in their popularity. They come in various stylish colors and sleek designs, appealing to those who want their running shoes to look as good as they feel. The Cloud X, for example, offers a range of vibrant color options that stand out whether you’re running in the park or walking around town. The attention to design detail extends to small features like reflective decals for added visibility and a tiny Swiss flag on the rear of the right shoe, showcasing their Swiss heritage.
Depending on where you live and the local climate, you might prefer the waterproof versions of On Cloud shoes. Models like the Cloudventure Waterproof are designed to keep your feet dry during wet weather runs. While these waterproof versions gain a little weight and sacrifice some breathability, they provide excellent protection against the elements, ensuring your socks and feet stay dry, which can make a big difference in comfort and performance during a rainy run.
The lightweight construction and eye-catching design make On Cloud shoes functional and fashionable. Whether you prefer the bold colors of the Cloudflow or the classic look of the Cloud, there’s a design to match every style. This blend of performance and aesthetics ensures that On Cloud shoes remain a top choice for runners and casual wearers.
Versatility Across All Terrain Lets You Conquer Roads and Trails Alike
Transitioning to the versatility of On Cloud shoes, it’s evident that they are designed to handle a variety of terrains, both on and off the trails. This adaptability is a key factor in their widespread popularity among runners and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re pounding the pavement, navigating rocky trails, or enjoying a mix of both, On Cloud shoes have got you covered.
Cloudventure Peak 3
Models like the Cloudventure are specifically engineered for trail running, offering excellent grip and stability on uneven surfaces. The aggressive outsole design ensures that you maintain traction, even on slippery or loose ground. The Cloudventure’s durable construction and protective features make it ideal for tackling rugged terrain, providing confidence and support with every step.
For those who prefer road running, the On Cloudstratus offers a smooth and stable ride on paved surfaces. Its double layer of CloudTec cushioning absorbs impact effectively, making long runs on hard surfaces more comfortable. The Cloudstratus also features a responsive Speedboard that enhances your stride efficiency, making it a favorite for distance runners.
Cloudstratus 3
But the flexibility of On Cloud shoes extends beyond running. The Cloudultra is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of activities, from trail running to hiking to casual wear. Its adaptable design and superior comfort make it a great choice for any outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring new trails or simply walking around town, the Cloudultra provides the support and cushioning you need.
Cloudultra 2
This versatility ensures that On Cloud shoes are not confined to a single type of activity or terrain. They are built to transition seamlessly between different environments, making them a reliable choice for outdoor pursuits. With On Cloud shoes, you can confidently tackle any adventure, knowing that your footwear is designed to perform, no matter where your journey takes you.
The Influencer Effect and Celebrity Endorsements: Boosting Popularity
Another significant factor contributing to the popularity of On Cloud shoes is the influence of celebrities and social media endorsements. Strategic partnerships with well-known athletes and influencers have significantly boosted the brand’s visibility and popularity. The involvement of notable tennis players in product development showcases On’s commitment to performance and innovation.
Roger Federer, a co-entrepreneur and investor in On since 2019, plays a significant role beyond mere sponsorship. He collaborates closely with the company’s founders and product development teams, bringing his extensive experience and insights to enhance On’s products and marketing strategies. This partnership began organically when Federer was seen wearing On shoes, leading to a deeper involvement due to shared values and a passion for innovation. One notable outcome of this collaboration is “THE ROGER” series, a tennis-inspired sneaker line that combines Swiss engineering with Federer’s input to deliver high performance and comfort.
On and Roger Federer
Federer’s involvement was a strategic move that paid off significantly. He spent 20 days in the lab with the On team, developing the pro tennis shoe to meet his high standards. This hands-on approach allowed Federer to contribute directly to the design and functionality of the shoes, ensuring they met the demands of professional athletes.
The limited edition Roger Centre Court 0-Series On sneaker
Building on Federer’s influence, On has recently signed world No. 1 Iga Świątek and American rising star Ben Shelton. Świątek, a three-time Grand Slam champion, is the first female tennis player to join On. She will wear On’s tennis shoes and apparel and contribute her ideas to developing new products tailored to athletes’ needs. Świątek’s endorsement aligns with On’s core values and commitment to supporting top-tier athletes.
Ben Shelton, known for his athleticism and power, also joins On as the brand’s first male tennis player. His early success, including reaching the quarterfinals at the Australian Open and winning the Japan Open, underscores his potential. Shelton’s partnership with On allows him to grow with a company making significant strides in the tennis world.
These endorsements highlight On’s strategy to integrate athlete feedback into their product development, ensuring their offerings meet the highest performance and innovation standards. This approach enhances On’s reputation in the sports industry and helps them create products that resonate with both professional athletes and everyday users.
Commitment to Sustainability
On Cloud’s commitment to sustainability is a core aspect of its brand identity, driving innovation in product design and corporate practices. The company has implemented several groundbreaking initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint and promote a circular economy.
One of the flagship sustainability projects is the Cyclon program, which exemplifies On’s dedication to circularity. This program offers high-performance gear designed to be fully recyclable. A prime example is the Cloudneo shoe, which is made from over 50% castor beans. Instead of purchasing the shoe outright, customers subscribe to it. When the shoes are worn out, they return them to On, where the materials are recycled into new products. This model reduces waste and ensures that materials are continually reused, aligning with the principles of a circular economy. The Cyclon-T, a performance tee made with over 90% bio-based materials, is another product in this line, showcasing On’s commitment to renewable resources.
In addition to the Cyclon program, On has developed CleanCloud technology, which transforms carbon emissions into high-performance materials. The Cloudprime shoe is a notable product from this initiative, featuring an EVA foam sole made with 51% CO2. This innovative approach captures carbon emissions, converts them into ethanol, and transforms them into various materials used in footwear and apparel. This process helps reduce atmospheric CO2 and sets a new standard for sustainable material production in the industry.
On Running also focuses on sustainable production practices across its entire product line. The company is working towards eliminating petrol-based materials and replacing them with fossil-free alternatives. The CleanCloud fabric in their Pace collection incorporates 20% recycled carbon emissions, demonstrating how On integrates sustainability into its apparel line.
Moreover, On has launched re-commerce platforms like Onward to extend the lifecycle of its products. This initiative allows customers to return used gear, which is then refurbished and resold, reducing waste and promoting a culture of reuse. On’s commitment to sustainability is further evidenced by its ongoing efforts to improve the production processes of its core technologies, such as the Speedboard, to minimize waste and emissions.
On Speedboard
By integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of their business, from material selection to production and end-of-life recycling, On Running addresses the environmental impact of their products and leads the industry in eco-friendly innovation. This holistic approach ensures that On’s products meet the highest performance standards while supporting a more sustainable future for the planet.
Exceptional Craftsmanship and Quality Materials
On’s dedication to exceptional craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials sets it apart in the athletic footwear industry. This commitment is evident in its advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and user experiences, which speak volumes about the brand’s reliability and performance.
From my own experience, On Cloud shoes have consistently delivered on their promise of comfort and durability. I own a pair of On Cloud 5 Waterproof shoes, which have served me well in various weather conditions. Initially, these shoes provided excellent waterproofing and support during my runs, keeping my feet dry and comfortable even in wet conditions. Over time, as they transitioned from my go-to running shoes to my yard shoes, their durability continued to impress me, showcasing the long-lasting quality of On’s materials and construction.
My wife shares a similar appreciation for On Cloud shoes. She primarily wears the Cloud 5 model for her daily activities and workouts. The lightweight design and superior cushioning of the CloudTec technology make them her preferred choice for short runs and long walks. The breathability and comfort provided by these shoes have enhanced her overall experience, making them an indispensable part of her active lifestyle.
Our 13-year-old daughter is also a fan of On Running. She owns a pair of On Cloud 5 All Terrain and proper tennis shoes, perfect for her adventurous spirit. Whether she’s running on trails or competing in tennis matches, these shoes provide the necessary grip and stability to keep her safe and comfortable. The stylish design also appeals to her, making them a hit among her friends and peers.
Between the three of us, we own seven pairs of On Running shoes, each serving a unique purpose yet all sharing the same high quality and performance standards. The variety in On’s lineup—from specialized tennis shoes to versatile all-terrain options—ensures that every family member can find a model that fits their needs.
On Cloud’s exceptional craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials are reflected in the positive experiences my family and I have had with their products. From the durability of the Cloud 5 Waterproof shoes to the comfort of the Cloud 5 and the versatility of the All Terrain model, On Running has proven to be a reliable and preferred brand in our household.
